Best Schools in Clarkston, Michigan
From preschool to college, the Clarkston area provides a well-rounded education to its students, no matter their age or abilities.
Clarkston Community Schools, Brandon School District and Holly Area Schools prepare students for the 21st century workforce or continuing their education at a college or university.
Clarkston Community Schools is a highly regarded school district of 7,500 students. The district has seven elementary schools (K-5), one middle school serving grades 6-7, one junior high for grades 8-9, and Clarkston High School, which serves students in grades 10-12, as well as an Early Childhood Center serving children ages 3-5, and an alternative high school/community education facility.
Students have access to cutting-edge technology and endless opportunities to explore their passions through rich co-curricular offerings like K-12 foreign language instruction, project-based learning classes, award-winning fine and performing arts programs, career & technical education, 19 Advanced Placement classes, 15 International Baccalaureate courses, dual enrollment and early college options.
The district is home to two national Blue Ribbon schools and six schools that have earned Michigan Exemplary Blue Ribbon status. In addition, Forbes magazine named Clarkston one of its top suburbs thanks to Clarkston Community Schools’ high graduation rate and small class sizes.
“Everywhere I go, I am proud to say that I’m a part of Clarkston Community Schools! Our students are challenged, healthy, engaged, safe, and supported by a team of top-notch educators and a caring community of friends and partners of our schools,” said Shawn Ryan, superintendent of Clarkston Community Schools. “The Clarkston community and our neighborhood public schools have been seamlessly intertwined for over a century, making Clarkston a unique and special place to raise a family. And while our district’s story goes way back, our eyes are on the future. Our vision for this district is to continue leading the way in academic excellence (with strong curriculum programming you can’t get anywhere else), and guide our school system forward with a steady focus on doing what’s best for kids.”
Brandon School District is made up of one early childhood and preschool, two elementary schools, one middle school, one high school and one virtual school.
Academics are a priority at all grade levels, with the opportunity for scholars to partake in advanced placement courses and honors classes. Helping students grasp concepts from their lessons, technology plays a vital role in instruction at Brandon schools. Each school is outfitted with cutting-edge technology, including a one-to-one device-to-student ratio at Harvey-Swanson Elementary.
Likewise, music is part of student life throughout the district. Its bands and choirs are nationally recognized. Athletics, the arts and clubs contribute to a well-rounded education for students.
Made up of four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school, as well as the Karl Richter campus, Holly Area Schools makes students’ futures a top priority. Students receive a high-quality, rigorous education, with instruction that is tailored to each student’s unique needs.
Moreover, Holly Area Schools houses the state’s first Leader in Me middle school. Holly Elementary is also a Leader in Me school. The district enjoys a highly supportive and safe learning environment, such as its award-winning LIFT program, which supports peers with Autism. All four elementary schools offer STEM classes, and high school students can partake in dual enrollment classes through a partnership with the University of Michigan-Flint, allowing them to earn college credit before earning their diploma.
Aside from solid academics, scholars can participate in athletics, clubs and numerous other extracurricular activities. In fact, Holly High School’s bands consistently earn top ratings at competitions and other events.
“As superintendent, I am committed to providing all Holly Area Schools students with cutting-edge technology and innovative programs that provide them with real-world experience that prepares them for the jobs of the future,” said Scott Roper, superintendent at Holly Area Schools. “I am dedicated to building a culture of kindness, compassion and respect that fosters a positive, nurturing learning environment that helps all students achieve and succeed. This includes teaching important life skills outside the classroom before, during and after school.”
For parents looking to provide their students with an alternative to public schools and a faith-filled atmosphere, Oakland Christian School is a great choice. At its core, the school engages its pupils in rigorous and relevant education that prepares them for the 21st century and followers of Christ.
Biblical principles are integrated into curriculum, helping students become well-rounded individuals. The school also offers 33 Advanced Placement courses, six honors classes, STEM courses for middle and high school students and the opportunity to learn Spanish in elementary school. Visual arts, music, drama and athletics complement students’ experience.
Little ones have access to some of the best early childhood education opportunities in the area.
Montessori School of Clarkston helps students develop academically, socially and emotionally. Students become independent, self aware and empathetic toward others. The school offers a three- and five-day program, as well as before- and after-care options.
Heartfelt Impressions Learning Centers, with a convenient location in Clarkston, provides pre-kindergarten educational programs, including infants and toddlers. It also offers a school age care program, which spans kindergarten through fifth grade. Before and after school, children make friends, explore and develop social skills. Summer camps are also available.
Lil’ Peoples’ Place focuses on enhancing a child’s socialization, creativity, language and decision-making skills, as well as growing their self-esteem and self-worth. Divided up into age groups – Infants (6 weeks to 12 months); Young Toddlers (12 to 18 months); Toddlers Ratio (18 months to 2 ½ years); Transition Room (2 ½ to 3 years); Preschool Ratio (3 to 4 years); and Pre-K Ratio (4 to 5 years) — children learn at their own pace. A before- and after-care program is also offered for school-age pupils, as well as summer camp.
The Learning Experience, educating ages 6 through 12 years, helps children become innovative, creative and kind individuals. Its programs span six stages of early development, enabling children to develop cognitively, physically and socially. Lessons incorporate manners and etiquette, hands-on technology, phonics and foreign language, among others. Children can also participate in drama, dance, music, soccer and yoga.